AN animal charity is appealing for more foster carers to take in some of its dogs.

The appeal comes after adorable Frankie and Spot and their three siblings were born after their pregnant border collie mum was abandoned at a boarding kennel.

They were then taken to the National Animal Welfare Trust, at Heaven's Gate Farm, West Henley, near Langport.

Centre manager Caron Lane said the kennel then approached the NAWT to help her find homes for Frankie and Spot after managing to secure a family for the other three.

Frankie and Spot were just seven weeks old when they were taken to the rescue centre.

Since arriving, the pups have been fostered by volunteers Nicola and Matt, who now hope to encourage others to do the same.

Matt said: "I volunteer regularly at Heaven’s Gate Farm.

"A few weeks ago I was doing my usual dog walking duties and I was told they had puppies.

"Obviously I was excited to have a cuddle and while I was there they mentioned they needed someone to take Spot for a week or two. I said I’d happily do it."

At the NAWT, dogs are typically fostered out if they are too young to stay in kennels or are stressed and cannot cope with the kennel environment.

Caron said: "Some dogs that come into our care are just not cut out for the kennel environment.

"It can be very stressful, filled with strange noises and smells – some dogs don’t like living so close to other dogs and they find it overwhelming.

"Where we can, we will try find someone to foster these dogs so they can be as happy as possible while waiting for a forever home."

Meanwhile, according to the charity, young pups who have not had their full set of vaccinations can be at risk of picking up diseases they are not yet protected from, so for the likes of Spot and Frankie, they were instantly placed in foster care.

Matt added: "It’s been challenging looking after a puppy, but really rewarding too.

“She wasn’t house trained when I picked her up, so we’ve been working on that and she’s getting better. She’s usually awake between 5.30am and 6am every morning, so that has been difficult.

"Spot is a really clever dog and she’s full of energy. I’ve quickly learned you can’t take your eyes off her at any minute.

"She will eat literally anything she sees, from stones, shoelaces to my clothes if I leave anything lying around."

To find out more about the NAWT or to apply to become an animal foster carer, visit www.nawt.org.uk

Photos: S.W Photography & Media.